Hair removal is typically performed for aesthetic purposes and may vary by culture, individual and gender. Generally, excess hair removal begins with the onset of puberty when hair begins to grow in areas such as under the arms or on the face.http://www.livestrong.com/article/12450-puberty/ Unwanted hair, no matter the reason, can be removed through a variety of methods. Each method varies in cost, duration and effectiveness. Many hair removal methods require repeated use or application as hair regrows after removal.

Shaving- One of the more popular methods of hair removal is shaving the hairs using a razor. When using a razor, the portion of a hair shaft that resides outside the skin is cut off. Razors are offered in electric and disposable types. This method can be economical, but re-shaving may be required daily or every few days to maintain a hair-free appearance. For some, shaving causes ingrown hairs and irritation.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#

Plucking- Plucking hairs involves pulling out each hair by the root. Plucking is often done with tweezers, but can also be accomplished through epilators which remove multiple hairs at the same time. The cost of plucking varies based on the equipment used, but the effect can last up to 8 weeks. Plucking is generally considered a more painful method of hair removal.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#

Depilatories- This method of hair removal applies a liquid or cream solution to the area where hair removal is desired. The depilatory solution dissolves the hair with chemicals that may cause reactions in people with sensitive skin or allergies. These topical solutions generally are not expensive, but it may be less effective on individuals with coarser hair and special formulas are needed for chin or facial use. Depilatory solutions may offer up to 2 weeks of hair free skin.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#

Waxing- Waxing uses a thick, sticky wax solution. It is spread over an area for hair removal and a cloth is laid on top of the wax. The cloth is quickly removed to rip the hair, including the root, from the skin. Waxing can last up to 6 weeks, but it is best done with hair is at least 6 millimeters long, so repeated waxing may require some visible hair growth between applications. Waxing is offered in home kits and through salon services.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#

Electrolysis- This method of hair removal is meant as a more permanent hair removal solution. It requires using an electric current to kill the hair root. Multiple applications can be required and takes significant time. While permanent, the up-front cost for electrolysis is expensive as it requires special equipment and training.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#

Laser- As another method of permanent hair removal, specialized lasers can be used to kill hair growth. The main drawback to this hair removal option is the cost and some redness and inflammation may occur after treatments.http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/hair_removal.html#